From our friends at WABI Burien:

As a cyclist, there are guidelines and rules-of-the-road (and the State) that you must follow for safety’s sake, as well as the assurance of a more pleasant ride.

(And when riding with children, teach them to be good cyclists by ensuring that they also learn about and follow these guidelines!)

Act Safely and Predictably

Wear a properly fitted helmet.
Ride in a straight line.
Stay right, pass left.
Be seen. Wear light/bright clothing. Use a headlight and taillight.
Be courteous and a good bike ambassador.

Stay Alert

Momentary inattention is the number one cause of incidents.
Watch for vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians and hazards (e.g. curbs, potholes, railroad tracks, glass, debris).
Do not wear earbuds or use phones while riding.

Maintain Space

Move off the road or trail when stopped.
Leave enough room in front of you to avoid other riders, vehicles and hazards.
Ride at least four feet from parked cars, outside the door zone.

Respect the Rules of the Road

Obey all traffic laws.
Bicycles are allowed to treat stop signs as yields if no other vehicles or pedestrians are present.
Use hand signals when turning or stopping — if it is safe to do so. Show everyone around you what you are going to do before you do it.
In most cases, riding single file is safer. Bicyclists have the legal right to ride two abreast and/or to take the full lane when necessary to have adequate space to ride safely.
Yield to pedestrians. They have the right of way.

In Group Rides, Think Ahead and Talk

Scan ahead and anticipate what others will do.
Tell others what you are going to do by saying: “Stopping”, “Slowing”, “Passing on your left”.
Announce “Broken” when the group becomes separated.
Call out hazards such as: “Glass”, “Sand”, “Post”. Use your outside voice.
Do not yell “Clear” at intersections. Everyone should check for themselves.
Cross railroad tracks at a right angle whenever possible. Warn other riders and plan your approach to ensure safe crossing.

With acknowledgement to Cascade Bicycle Club.

For further information, contact Dave at Bike@wabiburien.org.